The Book of the Names of the Dead during the Month of November
Parishes have the custom of giving a place of honor to a book in which community members and visitors write the names of their beloved dead. The Book of the Names of the Dead was inspired by the ancient practice of recoding the dates of the deaths of loved ones in a necrology, a public record or registry of death. This practice provides the living with an opportunity for healing and consolation in the face of grief. The Book of the Names of the Dead will be displayed in the church narthex from the Solemnity of All Saints until the Feast of Christ the King.
You'll notice the Book of the Dead on an easel by the Pieta statue. As the Pieta represents Mary sorrowfully contemplating the dead body of her son, we entrust all our beloved dead to her loving and compassionate embrace. Through the intercession of Mary, we pray for peace and comfort to be given to all who grieve the loss of a loved one.
If you would like to have your deceased loved one’s name inscribed in the Book of the Names of the Dead, please fill out the request form below. We will then inscribe your loved one’s name on your behalf. Please remember that if you have inscribed your deceased loved one’s name previously, you do not need to do so again.
Remembering all of those who have gone before us, “marked with the sign of faith,” helps us better understand and appreciate our faith in Christ our risen Lord who conquers sin and death and brings new life to all.